WMG Acquires Spinnin’ Records
Warner Music Group (WMG) has acquired Spinnin’ Records, described as one of the world’s leading independent electronic music companies. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in the Netherlands, Spinnin’ Records is also home to successful music publishing and artist management divisions. Recording artists currently signed to Spinnin’ Records include Alok, Bassjackers, Bob Sinclar, Chocolate Puma, EDX, Fedde Le Grand, Kris Kross Amsterdam, KSHMR, Lucas & Steve, Mike Williams, Oliver Heldens, Quintino, Sam Feldt, Throttle, Tujamo, Ummet Ozcan, Vinai and Watermät. Spinnin’ is also home to sub-labels like Musical Freedom (founded by Tiësto), Hexagon (founded by Don Diablo), Dharma (founded by KSHMR), Maximized (founded by Blasterjaxx) and Heldeep Records (founded by Oliver Heldens).
Within WMG, Spinnin’ Records will be run by its co-founder Roger de Graaf as CEO, who will work closely with Bart Cools, WMG’s EVP, Global A&R and Marketing, Dance Music. Max Lousada, Chairman & CEO of Warner Music UK, who becomes WMG’s CEO, Recorded Music on October 1, said, “Warner’s past, present and future are all about creating an environment in which incredible artists and entrepreneurs thrive. That’s why I’m pleased to welcome Spinnin’ to our growing family of labels, each with its own cultural identity. Roger and the team aren’t just world leaders in dance music, but pioneers of new ways to break artists and build music brands. Together, we’ll nurture and expand Spinnin’s global community of hit-makers, DJs, producers, songwriters, and millions of passionate fans.” Following the acquisition, Spinnin’ co-founder Eelko van Kooten has decided to leave the music business to pursue interests in other industries.
